This Easy Garlic Lemon Chicken Thighs recipe is packed with flavor! Juicy chicken thighs are coated in a zesty garlic and lemon mixture, making every bite deliciously tangy.
I love how simple this dish is to make—just mix, marinate, and bake. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, and your kitchen will smell amazing! Who can resist that? 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: Bone-in, skin-on thighs are the best choice for juicy and flavorful results. If you prefer, you can use boneless thighs or even chicken breasts, but cooking times may vary, and they might need a little extra moisture.
Garlic: Fresh garlic adds great flavor. If you’re in a pinch, you can substitute garlic powder—about 1 teaspoon for every clove—but I recommend using fresh for the best taste.
Lemon: Fresh lemons are crucial for that bright flavor! You can use bottled lemon juice in a pinch, but fresh zest brings a unique aroma that really enhances the dish.
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil is my go-to for its flavor and health benefits. If you’re looking for a milder taste, you could use vegetable oil instead.
Oregano: Dried oregano adds a lovely herbal element. If you don’t have it on hand, try substituting with Italian seasoning or fresh oregano for a different twist.
How Can I Ensure the Chicken Skin Gets Crispy?
Getting that crispy skin is key to this recipe! Start by patting the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. This helps remove excess moisture that could create steam during baking.
- Use a hot oven (425°F) to help crisp up the skin.
- Arrange the thighs skin-side up and make sure they’re not overcrowded—this allows hot air to circulate around them.
- Broil for a couple of minutes at the end for extra crispiness, but keep a close eye on them to prevent burning.
Letting the chicken rest after baking is essential too; it keeps the juices inside. Enjoy your cooking!
Easy Garlic Lemon Chicken Thighs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lemon (zested and juiced)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Time Needed:
This delicious garlic lemon chicken thighs recipe will take approximately 15 minutes to prepare and about 30-35 minutes to cook. If you have time to marinate, 15 minutes to 1 hour will enhance the flavor even more!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). A hot oven is key for crispy skin and juicy meat!
2. Make the Marinade
In a medium mixing bowl, combine the minced garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, olive oil, dried oregano, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if you like a little heat). Mix everything well to create a flavorful marinade.
3. Marinate the Chicken
Next, pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. This step helps to get that crispy skin! Place the chicken in a large bowl or baking dish and pour the marinade over it. Toss the chicken to coat it evenly. Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes; if you have time, you can let it sit for up to 1 hour to soak in those flavors.
4. Arrange for Baking
Once marinated, arrange the chicken thighs on a baking sheet or in an oven-safe skillet, skin-side up. Avoid crowding the chicken to allow it to cook evenly.
5. Bake the Chicken
Put the chicken in the preheated oven and bake for about 30-35 minutes. The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C), and the skin is crispy and golden brown.
6. Broil for Extra Crispiness
If you want an even crispier skin, switch the oven to broil for the last 2-3 minutes. Just keep a close eye on it to prevent burning!
7. Serve and Enjoy!
Once cooked, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. This resting time will keep the juices in. Finally, garnish with freshly chopped parsley, and enjoy your flavorful Garlic Lemon Chicken Thighs!
Happy cooking! 🍽️
FAQ about Easy Garlic Lemon Chicken Thighs
Can I Use Boneless Chicken Thighs Instead?
Yes, you can use boneless chicken thighs! Just keep in mind that they may cook faster, so check their internal temperature around the 25-minute mark to avoid overcooking.
What Can I Substitute for Olive Oil?
If you don’t have olive oil on hand, you can use other cooking oils like vegetable oil, canola oil, or avocado oil. Each will give a slightly different flavor but will work well in this recipe.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, use a microwave or warm them in a skillet over low heat until heated through.
Can I Add Vegetables to This Dish?
Absolutely! You can add vegetables like broccoli, asparagus, or bell peppers around the chicken on the baking sheet. Just be sure to cut them into similar sizes for even cooking, and toss them with a little olive oil, salt, and pepper before adding to the pan.
